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How to Crochet in the Front and Back Loop

Appearance in pattern - front lp or back lp

Back Loop Crochet

Front Loop Crochet

Working the front or back loops only of a crochet stitch will leave a horizontal bar exposed on the fabric. When working in the back or front loop the crochet fabric becomes more elastic than the traditional way of working under both loops. You can crochet in the front or back loop only of any crochet stitch.

The crochet fabric piece shown here demonstrates crocheting in the traditional manner under both loops, and the front and back loop of single crochet stitches using double crochet stitches.

Traditional Crochet Hook Placement

When working a traditional crochet stitch you insert the crochet hook from the front of the chain, through the center of the “V” and under the corresponding bar on the back of the same stitch. You can see that it is below the front and back loops.

Working in the back loop

To crochet in the back loop of a stitch, insert your crochet hook underneath the back loop only and make the stitch as indicated in your pattern.

Working in the front loop

To crochet in the front loop of a stitch, insert your crochet hook underneath the front loop only and make the stitch as indicated in your pattern.